The Suzuki Method: Teaching Musical Excellence and Positive Personal Development

In the 1930s, Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki developed the Suzuki method. This method follows Suzuki’s philosophy that children’s abilities can be developed and enhanced through learning in a nurturing environment.

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What is the Suzuki Method?

The Suzuki method, developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki in the 1930s, is based on the Suzuki’s philosophy that all children possess ability that can be developed and enhanced through learning in a nurturing environment.

“My prayer is that all children on this globe may become fine human beings, happy people of superior ability, and I am devoting all my energies to making this come about, for I am convinced that all children are born with this potential.”

– Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998)

Did You Know?

Today there are over 8,000 Suzuki teachers worldwide and more than 250,000 children

learning violin using The Suzuki Method.

While Suzuki was a violinist, the Suzuki method isn’t limited to the violin.

Basic Principals of the Suzuki Method

When he realized that children easily and naturally learn to speak their native tongue, he applied the same principles of language acquisition to learning music.

Some of the basic principals to a well-rounded music education:

An Early Start

While students of all ages can learn to play music, the Suzuki method emphasizes starting between 3 and 5 years old.

A Nurturing and Positive Environment

Reinforce progress with sincere encouragement and praise. All children have potential and can realize it with the right support.

Well-Trained Teachers

Music teachers should be skilled not only in their instrument but also in their ability to communicate lessons effectively.

Parent Involvement

Parents carry the philosophy through the home and can even learn the instrument as well to help the child further.

Learning to Listen

When we’re learning to talk, it helps that there are people using the language around us all day. Listening to music everyday is important, especially music that’s being taught to the child.

Learn by Ear First

We first learn to speak, and then we learn to read. The Suzuki method promotes the same process for learning music.

Repetition

Children don’t learn things that won’t be revisited—each lesson adds to the child’s music vocabulary and is used practically to be built upon.

Involvement in music community

Children are encouraged to attend concerts and community events and also to partake in performances to learn to be comfortable on stage with their instrument.